A gluten-free diet is a special diet that eliminates foods
that contain or are made from the protein gluten. Wheat,
barley, rye, and oats contain gluten and should be avoided.
Gluten-free diets are sometimes used as an alternative
intervention method for children with autism. This diet may
help with digestion, as well as some characteristics of autism,
such as difficulty with communication and social skills.

Where Do I Start?

Experts recommend a three-month gluten-free-diet trial period for children younger than age three
and for a six-month period after age three. Introduce this diet gradually, especially with younger children.
Very young children are more likely than older children to experience severe withdrawal reactions when
placed on the diet suddenly. Parents’ knowledge of the ingredients in their grocery cart is very important.
Parents can purchase gluten-free cookbooks to learn how to cook without gluten and still provide
adequate nutrition for their child.

What Theory Supports a Gluten-Free Diet?

Although not proven, some experts believe that many children with autism often have difficulty
digesting foods that contain gluten. These undigested proteins turn into substances that act as opiates or
drugs which may affect brain development and behavior. Some possible results of a gluten-free diet are:

Decrease in impulsive behaviors (yelling, shouting, or screaming)

Increase in attention span (able to focus on a task or activity for an increased period of time)

While there are no significant differences in behavior between children on a gluten-free diet and
children on regular diets, many parents report improvement in behavior after their children are on a
gluten-free diet. Currently, there is not enough evidence to support or oppose the use of this diet as an
intervention method for children with autism.

What Are Possible Side-Effects?

Weight gain or loss

Poor vitamin status

High cholesterol

Constipation or diarrhea

What Are Some Foods That My Child Can and Cannot Eat on This Diet?

Can Eat

Cannot Eat

Fresh meats (not breaded/battered)

Fresh fruits/vegetables

Rice, rice crackers

Corn meal/starch

Potato starch

Soy

Beans

Most milk products

Wheat, wheat germ, semolina

Oats, oat flour

Barley, barley flour

Rye

Malt flavoring

Most gravies, soups, sauces

It is important for parents to think about the benefits, which have not been proven, of a
gluten-free diet before putting forth the effort to maintain such a diet. Parents must also consider
the effects this change may have on the child and family members. Parents should consult a
physician or dietician for advice on adequate nutritional supplements. Look for online sources for
gluten-free cooking ingredients as well.